THESE shocking images showing divers taking their lives into their hands as they plunge into a river has sparked an urgent safety warning.

Published 23rd July 2014

TAKE THE PLUNGE: Onlookers stared as a daredevil diver plunged head-first into the River Derwent [ROSS PARRY]

These daredevils tried to beat the sweltering summer weather by tombstoning into the chilly water of the river at Kirkham Priory, near Malton, North Yorks as passers-by looked on in shock.

One man is pictured plummeting into the murky water and reeds head-first as his grinning pals look on in amazement.

In another snap, a man was not content just to jump into the River Derwent from one of its historic bridges and instead he made the roof of a van parked on the bridge his diving board.

Tombstoning has been a popular stunt in recent years as both the brave and the foolish drop into open water from cliffs and harbour walls, but often hidden dangers below the water's surface can turn things sour.

HIDDEN DANGERS: A chain of drownings in York and surrounding areas have North Yorkshire Police worried about safety [ROSS PARRY]

“What may look like a cool, inviting stretch of water on a hot sunny day can hide several dangers”

North Yorkshire Police spokeswoman

Emergency services are now warning of the dangers of the of jumping into rivers and have urged people not to do it.

A spokeswoman for North Yorkshire Police said jumping into open water on hot days could lead to problems with temporary shock, fast currents, waterborne diseases, and submerged dangers — even for strong swimmers.

She said: "What may look like a cool, inviting stretch of water on a hot sunny day can hide several dangers. If you want to go for a swim, it's best to use a swimming pool of lifeguard patrolled beach."

York has suffered continuous incidents of people jumping or falling into the city's rivers, often resulting in severe injuries.

This year four people have drowned falling into rivers in York, the most recent being Dr Mandeep Ahluwalia in May.